Delve into over 100 years of runway history
Fashion shows are huge, mediated spectacles, society events, and social statements. From the private fashion parades of the late nineteenth century to today’s live-streamed experiences, A History of the Catwalk presents iconic examples by fashion houses ranging from Balenciaga, Chanel, and Dior to Alexander McQueen, Martin Margiela, Prada, Vivienne Westwood and Mary Quant. Film clips and photographs, original couture creations and stage props create a vivid picture of more than one hundred years of catwalk history. From Sixties subcultures to Punk to fashion in a digital age, fashion shows emerge as complex works of art that engage with the human form, myths and ideals, realities and social change.
This course is presented alongside our exhibition, Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show, on now until 17 January 2027.
From the moment you enrol on a V&A on-demand course, you get 12 months' access to every stunning video lecture to rewatch as often as you like, plus plenty of additional learning materials, yours to keep.
